Accused Pocono Mountain teacher makes bail

Wednesday

Christopher Martinelli, the Pocono Mountain High School West teacher charged with having sex with a student, has posted bail and has been released from Monroe County Correctional Facility.

Christopher Martinelli, the Pocono Mountain High School West teacher charged with having sex with a student, has posted bail and has been released from Monroe County Correctional Facility.

A Monroe County Court judge on Monday granted Martinelli's request to reduce his bail from $200,000 to $150,000, on the condition that he avoid contact with any children, said defense attorney James Swetz.

The student has accused Martinelli, 40, of having sex with him on two occasions at Martinelli's home in summer 2011, when the student was 15.

Martinelli, who teaches social studies and has been suspended with pay, was charged earlier this month.

Martinelli has strong community ties and no prior criminal record, said Swetz, who's challenging the prosecution's allegation that Martinelli had indicated he wanted to shoot himself with a loaded gun found in his home.

The prosecution said police are investigating to see if Martinelli has victimized other children.

Andrew Scott

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